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Russ Morgan Mystery #1
Enigma
Who’s blackmailing the high-profile televangelist whose son was famously cured of his homosexuality fifteen years ago? Now in 2009, that ought to be ancient history.
It seems there’s no secret to protect, no crime, not even a clear demand for money—just four threatening letters using old Enigma songs from the 90′s. But they’ve got Reverend Howard Richardson spooked.
Proudly fifty and unhappily single, gay PI Russ Morgan has made peace with being a psychic empath, and he’s managed to build a decent life since getting sober. As he uncovers obscene secrets shrouded in seeming righteousness he might have to make peace with a sword of justice that cuts the innocent as deeply as the guilty.
It seems there’s no secret to protect, no crime, not even a clear demand for money—just four threatening letters using old Enigma songs from the 90′s. But they’ve got Reverend Howard Richardson spooked.
Proudly fifty and unhappily single, gay PI Russ Morgan has made peace with being a psychic empath, and he’s managed to build a decent life since getting sober. As he uncovers obscene secrets shrouded in seeming righteousness he might have to make peace with a sword of justice that cuts the innocent as deeply as the guilty.
54 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2013
2 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Lloyd A. Meeker
15 books57 followersAmongst other roles, I’ve been a minister, a janitor, a drinker, and a software developer on my way to becoming a writer. I’m a psychic empath still learning how to live in the world just the way it is. The thing is, the world is so much more than what seems generally accepted. That’s the challenge.
I’ve often thought that black holes were the intake end of stars shining into another dimension, just as the smallest voice in the heart of something familiar can call to me — an adventure waiting to pull me into wonder.
My husband and I have been together since 2002. Between us we have four children and four grandchildren. We live in south Florida, and work hard to keep up with the astonishing life we’ve created for ourselves.
Meeker's novel The Companion was named a finalist in the 2015 Lambda Literary Awards.
He is also the author of the titles Blood and Dirt, Traveling Light, Enigma, Blood Royal, and A Cape of Good Hope Christmas.
I’ve often thought that black holes were the intake end of stars shining into another dimension, just as the smallest voice in the heart of something familiar can call to me — an adventure waiting to pull me into wonder.
My husband and I have been together since 2002. Between us we have four children and four grandchildren. We live in south Florida, and work hard to keep up with the astonishing life we’ve created for ourselves.
Meeker's novel The Companion was named a finalist in the 2015 Lambda Literary Awards.
He is also the author of the titles Blood and Dirt, Traveling Light, Enigma, Blood Royal, and A Cape of Good Hope Christmas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 9, 2015
Cross-posted at Shelf Inflicted and at Outlaw Reviews
Enigma's ethereal new age sounds never really appealed to me, so it was not until I came across this story that I paid closer attention to their haunting lyrics and became curious about why they were so meaningful to the mysterious blackmailer threatening Reverend Howard Richardson and his family.
Rhys (Russ) Morgan is a 50-year-old private investigator recovering from alcoholism and determined to get his life back on track again. He is also an empath whose skills come in handy while interviewing the uncooperative and evasive Richardson family and their self-important, overbearing attorney, Andrew Kommen, who promises Morgan a hefty fee for solving the case quickly.
Morgan’s investigation leads him straight into the web of the troubled and deeply dysfunctional Richardson family. The ambitious Reverend Richardson takes great pride in the fact that his son, James, was cured of his homosexuality and is now a husband and father of three children. James has also worked hard expanding his father’s ministry into Latin America. Morgan’s unique ability helps him see through the subterfuge and realize that all is not well with James.
I loved this story for its exploration of Morgan’s past, the problems he currently faces, and the ties between his current case and his own life. His character is extremely well drawn and I’m very much looking forward to learning more about him and seeing his growth in future stories.
The mystery was easy to solve, but I can easily forgive that because the story is so wonderfully thoughtful and engaging. The lies, the truth, and the pain that is revealed here is heartbreaking, shocking, and unforgettable. The one thing I can’t abide though, is one of my major pet peeves. I really hate one-dimensional villains! Even though the truly evil villain does exist and fits well into this story, I needed just a little more complexity in his characterization that would have made this a 5-star read for me.
Best enjoyed while listening to The Cross of Changes.
Enigma's ethereal new age sounds never really appealed to me, so it was not until I came across this story that I paid closer attention to their haunting lyrics and became curious about why they were so meaningful to the mysterious blackmailer threatening Reverend Howard Richardson and his family.
Rhys (Russ) Morgan is a 50-year-old private investigator recovering from alcoholism and determined to get his life back on track again. He is also an empath whose skills come in handy while interviewing the uncooperative and evasive Richardson family and their self-important, overbearing attorney, Andrew Kommen, who promises Morgan a hefty fee for solving the case quickly.
Morgan’s investigation leads him straight into the web of the troubled and deeply dysfunctional Richardson family. The ambitious Reverend Richardson takes great pride in the fact that his son, James, was cured of his homosexuality and is now a husband and father of three children. James has also worked hard expanding his father’s ministry into Latin America. Morgan’s unique ability helps him see through the subterfuge and realize that all is not well with James.
I loved this story for its exploration of Morgan’s past, the problems he currently faces, and the ties between his current case and his own life. His character is extremely well drawn and I’m very much looking forward to learning more about him and seeing his growth in future stories.
The mystery was easy to solve, but I can easily forgive that because the story is so wonderfully thoughtful and engaging. The lies, the truth, and the pain that is revealed here is heartbreaking, shocking, and unforgettable. The one thing I can’t abide though, is one of my major pet peeves. I really hate one-dimensional villains! Even though the truly evil villain does exist and fits well into this story, I needed just a little more complexity in his characterization that would have made this a 5-star read for me.
Best enjoyed while listening to The Cross of Changes.
January 14, 2015
Like a dirk, short and deadly.
Well wrought story of an empath private eye and a case of revenge. Nicely done short story that touches enough truths to tingle the nerves. Overall, sharp and to the point.
Favorite quote:
Well wrought story of an empath private eye and a case of revenge. Nicely done short story that touches enough truths to tingle the nerves. Overall, sharp and to the point.
Favorite quote:
On the other hand, I believe deeply that at least once, maybe twice in a man’s life, he has to choose between his own truth and all the stories the rest of the world tells him about what he owes others.
October 6, 2015
3.5 stars
Pretty much introduced by it via my timeline, when my friend Didi added it to her current read. I was in a mood of mystery (having just devoured a mainstream mystery for the past week), and I thought this could be a nice option.
I liked the writing, it was straightforward and smooth. No purple prose on sight. Russ was a good protagonist; in his 50s, a recovering alcoholic, I found him likable, which was important since the story was written solely from his perspective.
The mystery solving -- well, I would like it better if I was 'included' in the investigation, so to speak. Russ' empathic ability, in which he could tell people's aura (and this case was solved after Russ was able to match the aura that he felt from one of the suspects with the blackmail letter), kinda kept the clues for himself.
Sure, I was able to make guesses based on Russ' interviews with potential suspects along with his own thoughts, but it wasn't the same. Having said that, the mystery itself was good, and while I could guess the perpetrator, it was always nice to know the motive behind it.
For those of you who are looking for romance, you will be disappointed. No romance in this. This is a gay mystery fiction. But, there are little seeds of attraction planted for romance, in form of a younger man, an assistant to the law firm. So maybe romance IS in the horizon for the next book.
PS: The younger man's name is Colin. Russ' last name is Morgan. Colin Morgan ♥ ♥. And my heart just goes pitter-patter *lol*
Pretty much introduced by it via my timeline, when my friend Didi added it to her current read. I was in a mood of mystery (having just devoured a mainstream mystery for the past week), and I thought this could be a nice option.
I liked the writing, it was straightforward and smooth. No purple prose on sight. Russ was a good protagonist; in his 50s, a recovering alcoholic, I found him likable, which was important since the story was written solely from his perspective.
The mystery solving -- well, I would like it better if I was 'included' in the investigation, so to speak. Russ' empathic ability, in which he could tell people's aura (and this case was solved after Russ was able to match the aura that he felt from one of the suspects with the blackmail letter), kinda kept the clues for himself.
Sure, I was able to make guesses based on Russ' interviews with potential suspects along with his own thoughts, but it wasn't the same. Having said that, the mystery itself was good, and while I could guess the perpetrator, it was always nice to know the motive behind it.
For those of you who are looking for romance, you will be disappointed. No romance in this. This is a gay mystery fiction. But, there are little seeds of attraction planted for romance, in form of a younger man, an assistant to the law firm. So maybe romance IS in the horizon for the next book.
PS: The younger man's name is Colin. Russ' last name is Morgan. Colin Morgan ♥ ♥. And my heart just goes pitter-patter *lol*
October 7, 2013
This story is all told from Russ's POV.
Russ is a PI with the ability to tell things about people and objects by their aura.
He is 50, gay, a recovering alcoholic and lives with regrets.
He has a case to solve and I found the case and the story it revolves around well told, but tragic all around. There is NO romance in this story, the door is left open a little, but who knows where the next story will lead?
I don't, but I really want to find out.
Russ is a PI with the ability to tell things about people and objects by their aura.
He is 50, gay, a recovering alcoholic and lives with regrets.
He has a case to solve and I found the case and the story it revolves around well told, but tragic all around. There is NO romance in this story, the door is left open a little, but who knows where the next story will lead?
I don't, but I really want to find out.
October 7, 2013
Another preparation for GRL!
Wonderful read all around. Nice pacing, interesting mystery, no sex and perfect length. Nothing's missing. Now I'm waiting for the follow-up.
Wonderful read all around. Nice pacing, interesting mystery, no sex and perfect length. Nothing's missing. Now I'm waiting for the follow-up.
July 22, 2014
Short, well written mystery. I really enjoy this author's writing style.
July 3, 2016
Enigma (Russ Morgan Mystery, #1)
By Lloyd A. Meeker
4 stars
A short story published for (and rejected by) an anthology, picked up by a publisher as a stand-alone…and worth it. Meeker is a good writer, who expresses authentic human emotion in what he writes.
What do I love about this story? The main character is gay and over 50. He’s not in love, and he’s not despondent, but he has a past and he carries regrets from that past. But he’s content. He’s even happy.
He’s also an empath, and gets embroiled in a very ugly (but bloodless) case that involves a terribly dysfunctional, rigidly Christian evangelical family.
A modest tale of regret and redemption. According to the author, it was never meant to be the start of anything—and yet it has sired a sequel, which I’m reading now. Russ Morgan is a man I want to get to know a lot better.
By Lloyd A. Meeker
4 stars
A short story published for (and rejected by) an anthology, picked up by a publisher as a stand-alone…and worth it. Meeker is a good writer, who expresses authentic human emotion in what he writes.
What do I love about this story? The main character is gay and over 50. He’s not in love, and he’s not despondent, but he has a past and he carries regrets from that past. But he’s content. He’s even happy.
He’s also an empath, and gets embroiled in a very ugly (but bloodless) case that involves a terribly dysfunctional, rigidly Christian evangelical family.
A modest tale of regret and redemption. According to the author, it was never meant to be the start of anything—and yet it has sired a sequel, which I’m reading now. Russ Morgan is a man I want to get to know a lot better.
September 1, 2013
Rhys “Russ” Morgan is proudly fifty and has one or maybe two regrets in his life. As if this wasn’t enough he’s also single. Oh, and an empath – which is actually pretty useful for his job and his current case.
The story itself focuses mostly on the mystery, which gave the whole book a “mainstreamy feel”. It’s definitely not a romance, but I’m not sure what will happen in the future. :)
The mystery wasn’t so hard to figure out and my only niggle would be the “religious theme” – but that is just my personal taste!
What I really liked was Russ’ voice. Even though he’s an empath and a PI, he was charmingly ordinary and at the same time a little bit mysterious.
A really good start for a new series!
The story itself focuses mostly on the mystery, which gave the whole book a “mainstreamy feel”. It’s definitely not a romance, but I’m not sure what will happen in the future. :)
The mystery wasn’t so hard to figure out and my only niggle would be the “religious theme” – but that is just my personal taste!
What I really liked was Russ’ voice. Even though he’s an empath and a PI, he was charmingly ordinary and at the same time a little bit mysterious.
A really good start for a new series!
September 23, 2015
If you like a good mystery and love to see the good guy win big in the end, you'll love this short story. I'm excited to say that this is the first in a series and book two is already out, so I can continue on immediately.
I've been a fan of Marshall Thornton's series Three Nick Nowak Mysteries and have read all published to date. But I have to say that Mr. Meeker sets the bar a bit higher in this first book. I think the blurb is enough to tell the reader what to expect the story to be about, the ending though is a gratifying surprise. Kudos Mr. Meeker, I'm a fan. Highly recommend! $2.99 on Amazon.
I've been a fan of Marshall Thornton's series Three Nick Nowak Mysteries and have read all published to date. But I have to say that Mr. Meeker sets the bar a bit higher in this first book. I think the blurb is enough to tell the reader what to expect the story to be about, the ending though is a gratifying surprise. Kudos Mr. Meeker, I'm a fan. Highly recommend! $2.99 on Amazon.
October 10, 2015
This bite-sized story originally submitted for an anthology introduces us to the character Private Investigator Russ Morgan. For an introduction to a new character it was just the right length to give the reader a feel for Russ. He has a talent in as far as he is extremely empathetic and can sense auras around people giving him a slightly paranormal edge to his investigations and this helps considerably in judging people's' intentions, whether they are telling the truth or not.
In this story he is confronted with a classic case of blackmail. Reverend Howard Richardson has a lot of secrets that he doesn't want the public to get their hands on or hear about. This is where I hate the so called commercial side of religion. Full of hypocrisy and do as I say but not as I do. Seriously, religious bigotry at its worst. Here he is raking in a fortune preaching high morals but practices none of them himself, you're archetypal wolf in sheep's clothing who preys on people's' beliefs to make a fortune and doesn't really care two monkeys about the pastoral care of his flock but only the lifestyle it provides him. Pay enough, pray enough and all your sins will be forgiven that is unless you're gay. Here there are horrendous conversion therapy camps and this is where he sends his son to make an example that the gay can be prayed away! Poor James, when we get to hear what happened to him my heart just bled for him and the psychological cruelty of it all. Obviously with the blackmail starting this could threaten to bring his whole dynasty collapsing down around his ears. His lawyers hire PI Russ Morgan. Has James fallen off the righteous road? Are there more hidden secrets the good reverend is keeping from us? Well, all I can say is there are a lot of revelations that left me disgusted at the hypocrisy of this man and his evil intent just to earn money.
I liked Russ a lot!! Why? Well, we have a mature gay man around 50 who has also battled his own demons against alcohol in his past and won. But more than that it is refreshing to read about a character who is not twenty something, ripped with bulging biceps, perfectly formed triceps, pumped up and always as horny as hell. Maturity brings a certain sovereignty with it and this is extremely evident in Russ. That for me was his attraction right there! Some people do get better with age I reckon. For me the older Sean Connery in the film The Hunt for Red October was a lot sexier than the young Bond version. So yes, I’ve fallen for Russ for sure.
When he meets Colin the young mid-twenties assistant to Kommen, Rev. Richardson's lawyer, he is obviously flirting with Russ but the doubt creeps in for Russ of what can such a young man possibly see in someone my age. Well, I guess we would all ask that question but the attention can be flattering and Russ enjoys it for what it is and just enjoys the company of the young man. Not sure where this is going but would definitely like to find out in any further books.
I really liked this little warm up story that will lead to more Russ Morgan mysteries. The writing is tight, the narrative and characters engaging. The plot perfectly paced for a short story. Also a big fist bump for the outcome when Pastor Richardson gets his just rewards served up on a cold plate of revenge that had me whooping with joy! YEESSS!!
In this story he is confronted with a classic case of blackmail. Reverend Howard Richardson has a lot of secrets that he doesn't want the public to get their hands on or hear about. This is where I hate the so called commercial side of religion. Full of hypocrisy and do as I say but not as I do. Seriously, religious bigotry at its worst. Here he is raking in a fortune preaching high morals but practices none of them himself, you're archetypal wolf in sheep's clothing who preys on people's' beliefs to make a fortune and doesn't really care two monkeys about the pastoral care of his flock but only the lifestyle it provides him. Pay enough, pray enough and all your sins will be forgiven that is unless you're gay. Here there are horrendous conversion therapy camps and this is where he sends his son to make an example that the gay can be prayed away! Poor James, when we get to hear what happened to him my heart just bled for him and the psychological cruelty of it all. Obviously with the blackmail starting this could threaten to bring his whole dynasty collapsing down around his ears. His lawyers hire PI Russ Morgan. Has James fallen off the righteous road? Are there more hidden secrets the good reverend is keeping from us? Well, all I can say is there are a lot of revelations that left me disgusted at the hypocrisy of this man and his evil intent just to earn money.
I liked Russ a lot!! Why? Well, we have a mature gay man around 50 who has also battled his own demons against alcohol in his past and won. But more than that it is refreshing to read about a character who is not twenty something, ripped with bulging biceps, perfectly formed triceps, pumped up and always as horny as hell. Maturity brings a certain sovereignty with it and this is extremely evident in Russ. That for me was his attraction right there! Some people do get better with age I reckon. For me the older Sean Connery in the film The Hunt for Red October was a lot sexier than the young Bond version. So yes, I’ve fallen for Russ for sure.
When he meets Colin the young mid-twenties assistant to Kommen, Rev. Richardson's lawyer, he is obviously flirting with Russ but the doubt creeps in for Russ of what can such a young man possibly see in someone my age. Well, I guess we would all ask that question but the attention can be flattering and Russ enjoys it for what it is and just enjoys the company of the young man. Not sure where this is going but would definitely like to find out in any further books.
I really liked this little warm up story that will lead to more Russ Morgan mysteries. The writing is tight, the narrative and characters engaging. The plot perfectly paced for a short story. Also a big fist bump for the outcome when Pastor Richardson gets his just rewards served up on a cold plate of revenge that had me whooping with joy! YEESSS!!
November 8, 2013
4 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Russ Morgan lands himself a gay hating client. Oh joy. Russ has the “privilege” of being the detective chosen because he’s gay and has knowledge of the subculture. After signing a bunch of legally binding non-disclosure agreements Russ learns a local televangelist believes he’s being blackmailed because of his son’s gay past. And it is a gay past. He was cured of being gay and of course now someone is out to attempt to discredit him and destroy everything the televangelist has worked to build. The only problems seems to be everyone is lying and hiding something. Being an empath makes solving the case a bit easier for Russ. Being an empath also made being an alcoholic easy for Russ. His past troubles are keeping him from moving forward despite longing to regain the kind of relationship he’s lost. As the case progresses, Russ easily spots obvious clues to which the other’s have blinded themselves either because of faith or a misplaced and egotistical sense of infallibility and pride. Unfortunately, every Christian should realize pride goes before destruction.
This was a superbly written story that packed significant character building for Russ into 18,000 words. I would be tempted to say that was the whole point of the story. I’m quite okay with that. One thing with which I wasn’t quite okay was the unreserved badness of the bad guy. I found him to be ludicrously over the top. I will happily be among the first to admit the overwhelming majority of religious leaders are crooks in one manner or the other, but this man was nothing but a crook. In every way possible he was bad. There was no shade of gray to make him compelling. He was bad and could be dismissed. Whereas Russ was nuanced and interesting, some of the other characters came off as two dimensional and vaguely stereotypical. Given the quality of the writing I found myself disappointed in the characters who were not Russ. But Russ was compelling, and I find I can’t write the story off. I will most certainly be interested in the next installment of The Russ Morgan Mysteries.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Russ Morgan lands himself a gay hating client. Oh joy. Russ has the “privilege” of being the detective chosen because he’s gay and has knowledge of the subculture. After signing a bunch of legally binding non-disclosure agreements Russ learns a local televangelist believes he’s being blackmailed because of his son’s gay past. And it is a gay past. He was cured of being gay and of course now someone is out to attempt to discredit him and destroy everything the televangelist has worked to build. The only problems seems to be everyone is lying and hiding something. Being an empath makes solving the case a bit easier for Russ. Being an empath also made being an alcoholic easy for Russ. His past troubles are keeping him from moving forward despite longing to regain the kind of relationship he’s lost. As the case progresses, Russ easily spots obvious clues to which the other’s have blinded themselves either because of faith or a misplaced and egotistical sense of infallibility and pride. Unfortunately, every Christian should realize pride goes before destruction.
This was a superbly written story that packed significant character building for Russ into 18,000 words. I would be tempted to say that was the whole point of the story. I’m quite okay with that. One thing with which I wasn’t quite okay was the unreserved badness of the bad guy. I found him to be ludicrously over the top. I will happily be among the first to admit the overwhelming majority of religious leaders are crooks in one manner or the other, but this man was nothing but a crook. In every way possible he was bad. There was no shade of gray to make him compelling. He was bad and could be dismissed. Whereas Russ was nuanced and interesting, some of the other characters came off as two dimensional and vaguely stereotypical. Given the quality of the writing I found myself disappointed in the characters who were not Russ. But Russ was compelling, and I find I can’t write the story off. I will most certainly be interested in the next installment of The Russ Morgan Mysteries.
October 27, 2016
WOW, that's one incredible novella that I highly recommend to everyone! Lloyd A. Meeker's message in this story is short, powerful and succinct.
I rarely if ever put suggestions to author's but re-telling this in a back story, in it's entirety and making it a long and detailed novel would make for one amazing story and read. Especially those horrendous pray the gay away reconditioning correctional facilities that operate in your country, the US of A. which are still operational in most states but not all thankfully.
I've seen documentaries on the aftermath of victims from them and other different camp correctional facilities for troubled teens that were made into fucking Reality TV shows that made me sick to my stomach. Ranging from the LGBTQ+ community and also troubled teens, violent teens, teens with criminal records, teens with anger management problems and eating disorders. The list is endless and terrifying and every single one of these camps is responsible of murder in my opinion. I've even seen shows where kids are flown in from other countries as their respective governments will never permit them to operate within their own countries. If that doesn't say something is seriously wrong because they are nothing short of outright child abuse, then I don't know what else will.
Since the scrutiny of them has fallen into the worldwide spotlight they are now popping up in other countries, even here in Australia a few years back but all the bigger Organisations to help us gay Aussie's pray the gay away have since left or most likely gone underground. This is thanks to our AMA, Australian Medical Association who vehemently and publicly opposed them but I'm sure there is underground operations of these sick organisations operating world-wide.
Here's an Australian article from 2014 which was updated in July 2016, scary! Undercover in a gay conversion camp It's a conference really, but it's in Australia.
Thanks for Enigma, it was awesome, RANT OUT!
I rarely if ever put suggestions to author's but re-telling this in a back story, in it's entirety and making it a long and detailed novel would make for one amazing story and read. Especially those horrendous pray the gay away reconditioning correctional facilities that operate in your country, the US of A. which are still operational in most states but not all thankfully.
I've seen documentaries on the aftermath of victims from them and other different camp correctional facilities for troubled teens that were made into fucking Reality TV shows that made me sick to my stomach. Ranging from the LGBTQ+ community and also troubled teens, violent teens, teens with criminal records, teens with anger management problems and eating disorders. The list is endless and terrifying and every single one of these camps is responsible of murder in my opinion. I've even seen shows where kids are flown in from other countries as their respective governments will never permit them to operate within their own countries. If that doesn't say something is seriously wrong because they are nothing short of outright child abuse, then I don't know what else will.
Since the scrutiny of them has fallen into the worldwide spotlight they are now popping up in other countries, even here in Australia a few years back but all the bigger Organisations to help us gay Aussie's pray the gay away have since left or most likely gone underground. This is thanks to our AMA, Australian Medical Association who vehemently and publicly opposed them but I'm sure there is underground operations of these sick organisations operating world-wide.
Here's an Australian article from 2014 which was updated in July 2016, scary! Undercover in a gay conversion camp It's a conference really, but it's in Australia.
Thanks for Enigma, it was awesome, RANT OUT!
October 4, 2015
3.5 stars
This was a nice introduction to psychic PI, Rhyss (Russ) Morgan, a 50 yo empath who could read people's aura. A too short a mystery sure, one so simple yet deeply rooted and rather sinister. But Mr. Meeker's writing style's certainly clicked with me.
I read this in preparation to read Blood & Dirt next, and this installment give me hopeful feeling!
PS: this book had me digged into my old CD collections and play Enigma's Return to Innocence. And now that song keep playing inside my head...
This was a nice introduction to psychic PI, Rhyss (Russ) Morgan, a 50 yo empath who could read people's aura. A too short a mystery sure, one so simple yet deeply rooted and rather sinister. But Mr. Meeker's writing style's certainly clicked with me.
I read this in preparation to read Blood & Dirt next, and this installment give me hopeful feeling!
PS: this book had me digged into my old CD collections and play Enigma's Return to Innocence. And now that song keep playing inside my head...
October 11, 2015
Just a little conflicted. I knew from the blurb that there would be some angst and I usually avoid reading about religious themes in MM stories. Too frustrating and painful. This wasn't actually that angsty as the story was really short and things wrapped up fairly quick thanks to the MC's convenient psychic powers. I was glad they did, but the overall story was still melancholy and depressing seeing all the lives destroyed. Colin was adorable though and the promise of something more is enough to keep me reading. (And yay for older MCs)
October 17, 2016
Loved it. Please write many more Russ Morgan books, Mr. Meeker!!!
December 16, 2021
Very well written and just long enough to keep me flipping pages. I felt sad for the culprit. Perhaps forgiveness would have been healthier.
September 18, 2022
Kindle-Sort-ReRead
I was surprised how short this book was, never check page count and expected a full length story.
It's hard to pin the genre.
It's not really a detective story despite the setup, there's no real mystery or detecting. The detective sees auras and solves at a glance picking up a nice fee for it. I found it equally obvious.
There's no romance either, the promise of a possible dalliance at best.
The voice of the book though, is solid. A fifty year old, dry alcholic, detective. The pov is fairly prosaic and refreshing for that.
It's all very understated, no big drama. While freeing for some, the true villain doesn't get full comeuppance though the cracks could widen. And always innocent get hurt.
Felt I'd read a longer story, like how you can read a lot into things that aren't spelt out. The characters felt real and deeper than the page.
For the writing and pov voice 5*. But overall I need more detecting than a quick Google of song lyrics to rate higher.
I was surprised how short this book was, never check page count and expected a full length story.
It's hard to pin the genre.
It's not really a detective story despite the setup, there's no real mystery or detecting. The detective sees auras and solves at a glance picking up a nice fee for it. I found it equally obvious.
There's no romance either, the promise of a possible dalliance at best.
The voice of the book though, is solid. A fifty year old, dry alcholic, detective. The pov is fairly prosaic and refreshing for that.
It's all very understated, no big drama. While freeing for some, the true villain doesn't get full comeuppance though the cracks could widen. And always innocent get hurt.
Felt I'd read a longer story, like how you can read a lot into things that aren't spelt out. The characters felt real and deeper than the page.
For the writing and pov voice 5*. But overall I need more detecting than a quick Google of song lyrics to rate higher.
October 4, 2016
This one was quite a nice surprise, but too short. However there is a second book, which made it okay.
For fans of Tyler Dilts I think this one will be a hit. I love TD, and Lloyd Meeker has the same feel, though in a MM-setting.
(JUST saw that there is a new TD book out... I know what I'm reading next!)
So Russ (Rhys) is working as a PI. He's an empath and is able to see people's auras, so there is a wee aspect of 'fantasy', but for some reason it never felt unreal in the plot and setting.
He's hired by a lawyer named Kommen (*snicker* that's the danish word for cumin) representing a televangelist, to figure out who's sending threatening/not-so-threatening letters to the televangelist.
The televangelist is one of those people believing in conversion-therapy and he sent his then 17-yo son to one, and *HALLE-LU-JAH* the son was cured...
Russ is a very cool character. He was an alcoholic, but is sober today and a great MC. He's smart, he's collected and he's kind of fun.
I really wish this book had been longer, that we had some smexy times and that the ending was more 'grand'.
But all in all for such a short book, fun mystery, great characters and a great beginning to a series.
For fans of Tyler Dilts I think this one will be a hit. I love TD, and Lloyd Meeker has the same feel, though in a MM-setting.
(JUST saw that there is a new TD book out... I know what I'm reading next!)
So Russ (Rhys) is working as a PI. He's an empath and is able to see people's auras, so there is a wee aspect of 'fantasy', but for some reason it never felt unreal in the plot and setting.
He's hired by a lawyer named Kommen (*snicker* that's the danish word for cumin) representing a televangelist, to figure out who's sending threatening/not-so-threatening letters to the televangelist.
The televangelist is one of those people believing in conversion-therapy and he sent his then 17-yo son to one, and *HALLE-LU-JAH* the son was cured...
Russ is a very cool character. He was an alcoholic, but is sober today and a great MC. He's smart, he's collected and he's kind of fun.
I really wish this book had been longer, that we had some smexy times and that the ending was more 'grand'.
But all in all for such a short book, fun mystery, great characters and a great beginning to a series.
October 17, 2013
A good short story. I was hoping there would be a good mix of romance and mystery in this story but it was more mystery than romance. The story largely focuses on Rhys (Russ) trying to find out all the facts about who is behind blackmailing a high-profile televangelist. Overall not a bad read.
A 3.5-ish star read for me.
A 3.5-ish star read for me.
August 17, 2014
ETA: Because of the rubbish and continued trouble-making associated around my review of The Companion this review can no longer be on here or our blog. The rating will remain the same, as that is only fair to the author, but the review will not remain.
October 20, 2013
Great writing, with multi-layered characters, a strong sense of place, and an intriguing mystery. I want to see a lot more of Russ.
January 3, 2016
I liked the private investigator imprisoned in his own misery that he has caused himself. His paranormal gift was the icing on the cake. A well done mystery.
December 24, 2018
Almost 3 but not 3.
September 24, 2015
“It is not the power that corrupts but fear. Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it and fear of the scourge of power corrupts those who are subject to it.” ~ Aung San Suu Kyi
Russ Morgan is a private investigator who uses his intuitive gifts to help him solve his cases. Russ is also an empath, someone capable of literally feeling what another person is feeling, to put themselves in “other people's shoes". With all the discomfort this can cause, sometimes Russ wonders why he does this job when it's so emotionally and physically draining. It's times like these when he has to remind himself that those of us who have these extra-sensory abilities have a responsibility to use them. Then he is approached to solve what seems to be a simple blackmail case, but, in truth, no case is ever as uncomplicated as it seems and this one is no exception.
Besides being an empath, Russ is also gay, which may or may not be a problem, especially in a case involving a “cured” homosexual. Russ is also a recovering alcoholic; drinking caused enough problems in his life, including losing the love of his life because he couldn't drink. Russ is in his 50s now and is lonely, but still feeling guilty about the one who got away. At the office of his client, he meets an attractive young man named Colin, who is more than helpful and obviously flirting. Russ is sorely tempted, but taps those feelings down telling himself that this beautiful twenty-something young man is way too young for him. Russ does find that Colin is nothing if not persistent and not easily dismissed. His sharp perception of other people sometimes clouds his ability to sort out his own life because, if he lets them, the bombardment of information affordable to him can be quite confusing and unsettling. Russ has been doing this work for many years and is practiced in putting things in perspective by stepping back and regrouping.
Andrew Kommen, the lawyer who hires Russ, is a pompous ass who enjoys asserting his assumed power over others. He's not successful with Russ who can tell the difference between what Kommen says and what he's feeling. Fortunately, Russ can turn his abilities off if necessary. Kommen works for Reverend Howard Richardson, who is even more offensive with a condescending attitude toward everything. He is threatened by a series of notes left in private places, notes that become more threatening as time goes on. They are coming from someone who knows his son, James, whom the reverend placed in a reparative therapy camp years ago to “cure” his homosexuality. His “recovered” son now has a wife and three children. James's recovery is a big feather in the cap of his father's ministry; one he needs to keep. The investigation is convoluted, with seemingly everyone under suspicion and confused except for Russ, who is calmly processing the information and forming his own opinions of the case. Russ is certain he knows who the culprit is, but when the notes become life-threatening, Russ knows he has to make his move and solve the case before someone dies.
This is a well written mystery with an outstandingly crafted main character. Russ being the narrator enabled me to understand what he's thinking and feeling. It also was a great vehicle for letting me see what he saw as far as other people's auras and emotions go and it was all very fascinating. I loved Colin and am looking forward to seeing him again because I doubt he will give up on Russ and I don't think Russ will be able to deny that blond green-eyed elf forever.
For those of you who enjoy a mystery starring a new, gentler, different kind of P.I. with a psychic twist, you may enjoy this story. Thanks so much, Lloyd, for introducing me to Russ and his unique perception about investigations.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Russ Morgan is a private investigator who uses his intuitive gifts to help him solve his cases. Russ is also an empath, someone capable of literally feeling what another person is feeling, to put themselves in “other people's shoes". With all the discomfort this can cause, sometimes Russ wonders why he does this job when it's so emotionally and physically draining. It's times like these when he has to remind himself that those of us who have these extra-sensory abilities have a responsibility to use them. Then he is approached to solve what seems to be a simple blackmail case, but, in truth, no case is ever as uncomplicated as it seems and this one is no exception.
Besides being an empath, Russ is also gay, which may or may not be a problem, especially in a case involving a “cured” homosexual. Russ is also a recovering alcoholic; drinking caused enough problems in his life, including losing the love of his life because he couldn't drink. Russ is in his 50s now and is lonely, but still feeling guilty about the one who got away. At the office of his client, he meets an attractive young man named Colin, who is more than helpful and obviously flirting. Russ is sorely tempted, but taps those feelings down telling himself that this beautiful twenty-something young man is way too young for him. Russ does find that Colin is nothing if not persistent and not easily dismissed. His sharp perception of other people sometimes clouds his ability to sort out his own life because, if he lets them, the bombardment of information affordable to him can be quite confusing and unsettling. Russ has been doing this work for many years and is practiced in putting things in perspective by stepping back and regrouping.
Andrew Kommen, the lawyer who hires Russ, is a pompous ass who enjoys asserting his assumed power over others. He's not successful with Russ who can tell the difference between what Kommen says and what he's feeling. Fortunately, Russ can turn his abilities off if necessary. Kommen works for Reverend Howard Richardson, who is even more offensive with a condescending attitude toward everything. He is threatened by a series of notes left in private places, notes that become more threatening as time goes on. They are coming from someone who knows his son, James, whom the reverend placed in a reparative therapy camp years ago to “cure” his homosexuality. His “recovered” son now has a wife and three children. James's recovery is a big feather in the cap of his father's ministry; one he needs to keep. The investigation is convoluted, with seemingly everyone under suspicion and confused except for Russ, who is calmly processing the information and forming his own opinions of the case. Russ is certain he knows who the culprit is, but when the notes become life-threatening, Russ knows he has to make his move and solve the case before someone dies.
This is a well written mystery with an outstandingly crafted main character. Russ being the narrator enabled me to understand what he's thinking and feeling. It also was a great vehicle for letting me see what he saw as far as other people's auras and emotions go and it was all very fascinating. I loved Colin and am looking forward to seeing him again because I doubt he will give up on Russ and I don't think Russ will be able to deny that blond green-eyed elf forever.
For those of you who enjoy a mystery starring a new, gentler, different kind of P.I. with a psychic twist, you may enjoy this story. Thanks so much, Lloyd, for introducing me to Russ and his unique perception about investigations.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 20, 2013
Enigma (A Russ Morgan Mystery) by Lloyd A. Meeker is an incredibly well written mystery that was intelligent, intricately woven and rich in characterization. The story centers on an older private investigator that has had more than his share of loss and darkness in his past. A recovering alcoholic, Rhys (Russ) Morgan, walks a fine line between falling back into the sinking pit that is his addiction to drink and helping others regain control over their lives by offering his investigative skills on the open market. There is much more than meets the eye when it comes to Mr. Morgan and his hidden talents are quite impressive to say the least.
Russ Morgan has an edge when it came so sussing out if his clients were telling him the truth. It turns out he is an empath. Because he has the ability to see a defined aura that spikes in different colors when a client lies or responds with any type of emotion, Russ’ job was all the easier to do when it came to getting to the bottom of a mystery. However, the latest case he is presented with throws up all types of roadblocks and deals with something that hits quite close to home for the quiet and thoughtful PI.
Someone is sending the Reverend Howard Richardson letters containing song lyrics that clearly indicate that the secrets the Reverend has buried are about to be exposed. The lyrics talk about the torture and pain a person has endured and the fact that no bad deed stays hidden or unpunished for long. After getting past the smug and homophobic Andrew Kommen, the family’s private attorney and gaining access to the pompous, holier than thou reverend himself, Russ discovers that the assumptions made about the letters being aimed at Richardson’s son are not quite accurate. As he interviews each family member it is quickly apparent who is sending the threatening letters and who they are actually intended for--something not clear to the good Reverend at the beginning of the story. When Russ finally confronts the culprit, the revelations that are made known and the horror that has been endured is so deep and repulsive that it literally blew me away.
For a short novella, Enigma packed a wallop. It utterly captured me, the characters so well delineated and believable, the story so very compelling and gut-wrenching. I am so very glad that this has all the markings of an ongoing series because I want to read more about this investigator. In this first installment, his back story is just touched upon, little clues dropped here an there for you to grab up greedily as you become more and more involved in this man’s life. I love the slight paranormal leaning to the story, rather than make it fantastical or unbelievable, I felt the special empathic abilities author Lloyd A. Meeker gave to Russ actually created a fascinating arc in what could have been a run of the mill detective story. I must admit Russ tore at my heart and sparked my imagination and the story was such that I was drawn in from the very beginning.
Enigma (A Russ Morgan Mystery) was an incredibly well written and exciting new mystery story by author Lloyd A. Meeker. I highly recommended it to you and, frankly, I personally cannot wait for the next installment in this thrilling new mystery series.
Russ Morgan has an edge when it came so sussing out if his clients were telling him the truth. It turns out he is an empath. Because he has the ability to see a defined aura that spikes in different colors when a client lies or responds with any type of emotion, Russ’ job was all the easier to do when it came to getting to the bottom of a mystery. However, the latest case he is presented with throws up all types of roadblocks and deals with something that hits quite close to home for the quiet and thoughtful PI.
Someone is sending the Reverend Howard Richardson letters containing song lyrics that clearly indicate that the secrets the Reverend has buried are about to be exposed. The lyrics talk about the torture and pain a person has endured and the fact that no bad deed stays hidden or unpunished for long. After getting past the smug and homophobic Andrew Kommen, the family’s private attorney and gaining access to the pompous, holier than thou reverend himself, Russ discovers that the assumptions made about the letters being aimed at Richardson’s son are not quite accurate. As he interviews each family member it is quickly apparent who is sending the threatening letters and who they are actually intended for--something not clear to the good Reverend at the beginning of the story. When Russ finally confronts the culprit, the revelations that are made known and the horror that has been endured is so deep and repulsive that it literally blew me away.
For a short novella, Enigma packed a wallop. It utterly captured me, the characters so well delineated and believable, the story so very compelling and gut-wrenching. I am so very glad that this has all the markings of an ongoing series because I want to read more about this investigator. In this first installment, his back story is just touched upon, little clues dropped here an there for you to grab up greedily as you become more and more involved in this man’s life. I love the slight paranormal leaning to the story, rather than make it fantastical or unbelievable, I felt the special empathic abilities author Lloyd A. Meeker gave to Russ actually created a fascinating arc in what could have been a run of the mill detective story. I must admit Russ tore at my heart and sparked my imagination and the story was such that I was drawn in from the very beginning.
Enigma (A Russ Morgan Mystery) was an incredibly well written and exciting new mystery story by author Lloyd A. Meeker. I highly recommended it to you and, frankly, I personally cannot wait for the next installment in this thrilling new mystery series.
April 20, 2016
4-4.5 stars
When private investigator Russ Morgan is hired to find who is blackmailing the son of a famous and powerful televangelist he expects to find some dirty secrets behind the façade of the holier-than-thou family. But the truth that he uncovers is more sordid than he ever expected…
What a charming surprise! This short story introduces us to Rhys “Russ” Morgan, a private investigator in his fifties who turns out to be really special for more than one reason: On the one hand, Russ is an ex-alcoholic who's learnt a very painful lesson. His addiction destroyed his relationship with a very special someone, and almost destroyed him as well. Some fifteen years later, Russ is still wounded and mourning, and very sensitive about the things that may hurt him, or the people around him. On the other hand, Russ is a psychic: he can read the aura of the people around him, thus knowing when they are lying, a very useful skill for a detective. The drawback is that he can also feel their emotions when he touches them, and that was one of the reasons which led him to alcohol in the past (trying to numb it). I really liked Russ. He is deeply sensitive, having suffered he understands suffering well. But he is also sensible, easy going and straightforward, a man who can keep to his principles because he knows the value of respecting oneself. I am surprised because it's not often that a character impresses me so deeply in such a short story.
There is no romance in this story, although there is a hint at it in the attraction Russ feels towards Colin, a man with a surprisingly pure aura who Russ considers too young for him (he's just twenty-five). I really enjoyed the inner monologue of Russ trying to convince himself of the wrongness of pursuing a relationship, or even a hookup, with sweet Colin. I do hope they get somewhere in the future. As for the mystery, it is well plotted and fast paced, without unnecessary entanglements or digressions: a pleasure to read.
In short, this feels like a very promising starting point for a worthy series. I'm moving to the next book at once. I'm hooked!
When private investigator Russ Morgan is hired to find who is blackmailing the son of a famous and powerful televangelist he expects to find some dirty secrets behind the façade of the holier-than-thou family. But the truth that he uncovers is more sordid than he ever expected…
What a charming surprise! This short story introduces us to Rhys “Russ” Morgan, a private investigator in his fifties who turns out to be really special for more than one reason: On the one hand, Russ is an ex-alcoholic who's learnt a very painful lesson. His addiction destroyed his relationship with a very special someone, and almost destroyed him as well. Some fifteen years later, Russ is still wounded and mourning, and very sensitive about the things that may hurt him, or the people around him. On the other hand, Russ is a psychic: he can read the aura of the people around him, thus knowing when they are lying, a very useful skill for a detective. The drawback is that he can also feel their emotions when he touches them, and that was one of the reasons which led him to alcohol in the past (trying to numb it). I really liked Russ. He is deeply sensitive, having suffered he understands suffering well. But he is also sensible, easy going and straightforward, a man who can keep to his principles because he knows the value of respecting oneself. I am surprised because it's not often that a character impresses me so deeply in such a short story.
There is no romance in this story, although there is a hint at it in the attraction Russ feels towards Colin, a man with a surprisingly pure aura who Russ considers too young for him (he's just twenty-five). I really enjoyed the inner monologue of Russ trying to convince himself of the wrongness of pursuing a relationship, or even a hookup, with sweet Colin. I do hope they get somewhere in the future. As for the mystery, it is well plotted and fast paced, without unnecessary entanglements or digressions: a pleasure to read.
In short, this feels like a very promising starting point for a worthy series. I'm moving to the next book at once. I'm hooked!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2013
Full review can be found on mmgoodbookreviews.com
This is the type of story that could easily become mainstream since while being gay is a central focus on the story, it doesn’t dominate the story, instead it’s as integral to the storyline as air is to breathing. You cannot have the story without gay characters or an understanding of the fundamental struggle and prejudices of being gay in society. The story is short, but is well written, uses great language and imagery, and the various techniques and plot devices used are very effective in achieving a story that has heart, depth and character. The reader likes and roots for Russ from beginning to end.
Suggestion to author: The reader is teased throughout the novel with Russ’ loneliness. The reader also sees that he’s both emotionally and psychologically ready to be with someone, if his focus on Colin is an indication. I think this would make for a great series with Book 2 being Russ’ rediscovering his ability to connect with someone else in a romantic sense.
This is the type of story that could easily become mainstream since while being gay is a central focus on the story, it doesn’t dominate the story, instead it’s as integral to the storyline as air is to breathing. You cannot have the story without gay characters or an understanding of the fundamental struggle and prejudices of being gay in society. The story is short, but is well written, uses great language and imagery, and the various techniques and plot devices used are very effective in achieving a story that has heart, depth and character. The reader likes and roots for Russ from beginning to end.
Suggestion to author: The reader is teased throughout the novel with Russ’ loneliness. The reader also sees that he’s both emotionally and psychologically ready to be with someone, if his focus on Colin is an indication. I think this would make for a great series with Book 2 being Russ’ rediscovering his ability to connect with someone else in a romantic sense.
March 6, 2015
A very enjoyable short read, written in a classic no-nonsense gumshoe style. I liked our more mature, battered but well worn in MC. It was good that the author did not throw in lots of romance and/or sex in what promises to be an excellent start to a series of whodunnits (here's to hoping).
Character development was pared to the basic, with just right amount of back-story provided for our sleuth Rhys (pronounced Russ) Morgan, judiciously interjected to the plot 'action'. I liked that the focus was more on uncovering the 'mystery/perpetrator' rather than having to wade through pages of text spent on the MC's fears/anxieties/relational woes etc.
I appreciated the author not throw in unnecessary romance and/or sex in what promises to be an excellent start to a series of whodunnits (here's to hoping).
Character development was pared to the basic, with just right amount of back-story provided for our sleuth Rhys (pronounced Russ) Morgan, judiciously interjected to the plot 'action'. I liked that the focus was more on uncovering the 'mystery/perpetrator' rather than having to wade through pages of text spent on the MC's fears/anxieties/relational woes etc.
I appreciated the author not throw in unnecessary romance and/or sex in what promises to be an excellent start to a series of whodunnits (here's to hoping).
January 18, 2016
3.5 Stars
So I did this backwards, I read book 2 first then just had to read book one to see how this series started. While it’s not essential to read Enigma before reading Blood and Dirt Book 2 of this series I would highly recommend you do. The mystery in each book are stand-alones but there are things in Russ’s private life that I learned after reading Enigma that helped me understand him more.
Russ Morgan is a PI and an empath and he uses that to aide him in solving his cases. I loved the premise and surprisingly I even loved that there isn’t a romance in this story but there definitely looks like the beginning of one. Enigma is all about the mystery and I thought that was well done even if a bit predictable. I love this author’s writing style and so far I’m loving this series. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
So I did this backwards, I read book 2 first then just had to read book one to see how this series started. While it’s not essential to read Enigma before reading Blood and Dirt Book 2 of this series I would highly recommend you do. The mystery in each book are stand-alones but there are things in Russ’s private life that I learned after reading Enigma that helped me understand him more.
Russ Morgan is a PI and an empath and he uses that to aide him in solving his cases. I loved the premise and surprisingly I even loved that there isn’t a romance in this story but there definitely looks like the beginning of one. Enigma is all about the mystery and I thought that was well done even if a bit predictable. I love this author’s writing style and so far I’m loving this series. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
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